How to Calculate Kaffarah
Simple Guidance for Fulfilling Your Expiation
The Basic Principle
Where Kaffarah involves feeding the poor, the amount per person is one meal — equivalent to the value of feeding one adult adequately. Most scholars equate this to the daily Fidyah or Fitrah rate, set annually based on food costs. Check with a local Islamic organization or scholar for the current rate.
Kaffarah for Breaking an Oath
Feed 10 poor people one meal each. Multiply the current daily rate by 10 to get your total.
Kaffarah for Intentionally Breaking a Ramadan Fast
If you cannot fast 60 consecutive days due to health or other valid reasons, feed 60 poor people one full meal each. Multiply the current daily Fidyah rate by 60. This is a significant amount — because intentionally breaking a Ramadan fast is a serious matter.
Kaffarah for Zihar
Same as above — feed 60 poor people if fasting 60 consecutive days is not possible.
What About Old Kaffarah?
If you owe Kaffarah from a previous year, pay it as soon as possible. The obligation remains regardless of how much time has passed.
